Newark City Hall was alive with energy and excitement as more than 150 young entrepreneurs set up their pop-up shops, transforming the historic building into a vibrant marketplace. These enterprising teens, many of whom are undocumented, were the stars of the International Teen Entrepreneur Festival, a groundbreaking event that celebrated their resilience, innovation, and newfound business acumen.
The festival marked the culmination of the VIP Coalition’s Boss Up Program, a unique initiative designed to equip undocumented and bilingual students with the skills and resources necessary to launch and sustain their own businesses. Led by Dr. Jamila T. Davis, in partnership with Newark Public School’s Bilingual Department and supported by the Newark Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery Services, the program has become a lifeline for many young people facing significant barriers to traditional employment opportunities
A Lifeline for Newark’s Undocumented Youth
For many of these young entrepreneurs, the Boss Up Program has been nothing short of life-changing. The program not only provided essential business training and startup funding but also offered a $100 weekly stipend, which for some students, represented the most substantial income they had ever earned. This financial support has had a profound impact, helping many students contribute to their household expenses while also giving them a taste of financial independence.
“This program is important for students facing barriers to traditional employment opportunities due to their status,” said Dr. Jamila T. Davis. “For many, the weekly stipend is their first substantial income, which boosts their confidence and encourages them to embrace American culture.”
The diversity of businesses showcased at the festival was a testament to the creativity and determination of these young entrepreneurs. From clothing and apparel companies to culinary services, jewelry, sneaker cleaning, and even dog walking services, each booth was a beacon of innovation and hard work. The festival not only provided these students with a platform to showcase their talents but also offered them the opportunity to engage with the community, build customer relationships, and gain invaluable real-world experience.
Support from Newark’s Leadership
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a strong advocate for youth initiatives, was in attendance to show his support. He praised the students for their entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, emphasizing the importance of providing young people with the tools they need to succeed. Deputy Mayor Lakeesha Eure and Deputy Mayor Rahaman Muhammad also addressed the students, delivering inspiring messages about the power of perseverance and the impact of entrepreneurship on community development.
“The entrepreneurial spirit we see here today is a clear indication that Newark’s future is in capable hands,” Mayor Baraka said. “These young entrepreneurs are not only building businesses; they are building their futures and contributing to the fabric of our city.”
Expanding Opportunities for Undocumented Youth
The Boss Up Program’s recent expansion to include undocumented and bilingual students is a significant step forward in Newark’s ongoing efforts to support its immigrant communities. Led by Dr. Juan Rios, LCSW, a respected professor at Seton Hall University, the bilingual team ensures that language barriers do not hinder these students’ entrepreneurial dreams. The curriculum, which draws on Dr. Davis’s book, “Boss Up: The Official Guide to Teen Entrepreneurship”, covers essential topics such as business fundamentals, marketing, branding, and customer service, all supported by digital resources.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to empowering youth and fostering economic independence in underserved communities. It is a direct extension of Dr. Davis’s ongoing efforts to help individuals realize their potential and build sustainable futures through entrepreneurship.
Inspiring Success Stories
The success stories emerging from the Boss Up Program are as diverse as the students themselves. One standout is 17-year-old Ryan Kundan, who recently opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant in East Orange. His success has already caught the attention of local media, with features on PIX11 and ROI-NJ.
As the festival drew to a close, the impact of the Boss Up Program was evident in the bright smiles and proud faces of the young entrepreneurs. This event was more than just a showcase of businesses; it was a celebration of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of opportunity. The Boss Up Program is not just teaching these students how to earn money; it is showing them how to build a future.
Newark’s investment in its youth, particularly those who have faced significant obstacles, is a model for cities across the nation. By empowering undocumented and bilingual students through entrepreneurship, Newark is not only shaping the next generation of business leaders but also fostering a culture of innovation, resilience, and community spirit that will benefit the city for years to come.
